Honiton RFC 97 - Crediton RFC 2nd XV 10

THE 2nd XV travelled to an in-form Honiton 1st XV fully aware that a stern test awaited — and that is exactly what unfolded.

Selection had been a challenge right up to the morning of the game, with manager Bobby Mogford working wonders to assemble a squad of 18.

As with the 1st XV, a number of regulars were unavailable, but the response from across the club was outstanding.

Several players from the mighty 3rds stepped up, and six Colts - Josh Burnison, Bailey Adams, Shay Wheeler, Kieron Wallis, Joe Stanbury and Ben Pulfer - answered the call to ensure the fixture went ahead.

Honiton came into the match having scored 159 points in their previous three outings, and their quality and cohesion were clear from the outset.

While results like this are always disappointing, credit must go to the lads who dug in, worked for each other, and refused to give up despite the pressure.

Effort and attitude were never in question; the opposition were simply too strong on the day.

With one fixture remaining, a third from bottom finish is already secured, but there is still something to play for. A final day victory - combined with other results falling our way - could see the 2nds climb one more place and finish on a positive note.

What mattered most this weekend was commitment to the shirt, and every player who took the field delivered that in full.

Scorers – Tries; Cameron Vooght, Danny Parcell.

This coming Saturday sees the 2nd XV conclude their season at home against OPM while the 3rd XV have a trip to Exmouth in the Semi Final of the Dave Butt Trophy.

On Sunday the Women’s XV head to Penryn for their final fixture.

Jay Harris